Ex-Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has suggested that the Gunners should give up their attempts to sign Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams.
It has been reported over the last week that the Spanish international remains a priority target for manager Mikel Arteta but, speaking to DisCasino, Petit said his former club should look elsewhere:
“I know Nico Williams has been linked, but I’m told he’ll never come to the Premier League if he leaves Athletic Bilbao, he’d only go to Barcelona.”
Petit says he is keen to have more competition for Gabriel Martinelli but, rather than Williams, he recommends going after a surprising alternative:
“Marcus Rashford would be an interesting signing for Arsenal. I’m very frustrated with Gabriel Martinelli’s performances at the moment, he’s very inconsistent and it’s annoying to watch. He’s been like a ghost on the pitch. Competition for a spot in the XI is important for Arsenal, look at Liverpool’s bench, the quality they have is amazing.”
Do Arsenal have a chance of signing Williams?
Petit seems pretty dismissive with regards to the club’s prospects of landing the 22-year-old but there have been reports recently suggesting he could be more open to joining an English club.
Admittedly, there are major obstacles to overcome even if Williams is interested in the move. There are rival teams involved. In addition to Barcelona, it is believed that Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City are keen on the player.
The cost of signing the forward will also be high. On top of paying his €58m (£49m) release clause, the Spaniard is said to be demanding a very high salary.
A move for Rashford is unlikely
Even though United are hoping to offload the England international during the January transfer window, it does appear that a loan switch to Italy or Germany is the likeliest possibility.
Rashford’s agents are said to have held talks with AC Milan, Juventus and Borussia Dortmund. Arsenal are not expected to get involved.
Find out who is in Arsenal’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here
